Impact of density gradient technique and Glycyrrhiza glabra medium mixed with autologous platelet rich plasma on certain sperm function parameters and sperm DNA fragmentation index of asthenoteratozoospermic men: A comparative cross-sectional study

Background: Although there is evidence of a global decline in sperm motility and an increasing frequency of male infertility, there is minimal documentation regarding prospective treatments and techniques to activate and enhance certain sperm parameters to overwhelm male infertility.

Objectives: This study used Glycyrrhiza glabra (Gg) and Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) media to establish a culture medium that aimed to improve sperm function parameters by preparing in vitro men’s semen complaining of asthenoteratozoospermic factor.

Materials and methods: Semen samples from 80 participants were investigated in a comparative cross-sectional study. After semen fluid analysis 34 samples were revealed normozoospermia and 46 samples were with asthenoteratozoospermia. Certain sperm parameters and DNA fragmentation index were assessed. PRP and Gg were used as a sperm culture media. Certain sperm parameters and DNA fragmentation index were assessed using World Health Organization 2021 and 1999 guidelines.

Results: After activation using the density gradient method and Gg plus PRP, sperm function parameters improved significantly (p<0.001), including increased motility, morphologically normal sperm percentage, and decreased DNA fragmentation index.

Conclusion: It is concluded that the density gradient technique with any medium used in the present study revealed a significant improvement in certain sperm parameters and a reduction in DNA fragmentation index.